Archive

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) intramuscular injections are becoming more and more popular these days. I know this to be the case when recently the reason a patient of mine wanted one was because Madonna does them on a regular basis! It is true, people of celebrity status, health experts like Dr. Oz and Dr. Andrew Weil, and of course the internet, bring (almost bombard) people with information at a rate never seen before. The good news, B12 injections are fairly innocuous and yet the benefits are endless.

Vitamin B12 boost energy level or stamina and can even help to speed up metabolism. This can actually affect an individual’s weight and has been used along with other therapies in weight loss programs. Having improved energy benefits mood, helps the body overcome chronic fatigue, and can also improve an individual’s level of physical activity. I have used B12 injections with many athletes to help with stamina, but also with recovery. Many benefits reported by persons who routinely receive Vitamin B12 injections include: improved sleep, reduced allergies, reduced stress and depression, improved mood, and less frequent or severe headaches. A Vitamin B12 injection contributes to healthier immune system, and is essential for proper cellular function, including the making of DNA during cell division and the proper formation of red blood cells.

Vitamin B12 is available in most animal protein, especially liver, but also fish, poultry, eggs, and milk. Vitamin B12 is the only vitamin not readily absorbed by the stomach or intestinal tract, so an injectable form is extremely beneficial, especially for strict vegans or those who have a known deficiency. People with anemia or other health concerns related to low energy or fatigue, may require weekly injections (for several weeks) of vitamin B12. This is mainly because the oral form is less dependable. Vitamin B12 injections are most effective when taken at regular intervals, usually monthly; however, a regular schedule to receive the injections can be customized to each individual by a physician or nurse practitioner.

The great news, the benefits are typically within 4 to 6 days of receiving a B12 injection, most people experience an increase in their energy level or stamina and in general, feel better.